Teams in Ulster, Munster and Leinster battle for silverware in festive finals
Hockey
St Stephen's Day means festive cup finals around the provinces with Leinster, Munster and Ulster silverware all up for grabs.
In Leinster, Rathfarnham rivals Corinthian and reigning champions Three Rock Rovers will descend on Serpentine Avenue with the Neville Cup title on the line.
For Rovers, they will largely be using their second-string for a second successive season but will be hugely competitive nonetheless with Peter Blakeney set to lead the line once again.
Last year, their youthful side ended up ousting Pembroke with goalkeeper Shane O'Brien providing the heroics.
This year, the rules have been adjusted to limit the number of front-line players from EYHL sides, giving Leinster league sides like Corinthian a more competitive edge.
And the reds have taken full advantage to reach the final for the first time since 2014.
Fireworks
They will look to Ian Stewart's fireworks in front of goal, netting more than 20 times already this term, and Conor Motyer's solidity at sweeper.
In Munster, Bandon are bidding for a first Peard Cup success when they take on a resurgent Cork Harlequins at 2pm on St Stephen's Day in Garryduff.
In Ulster, Banbridge face Annadale in the Kirk Cup final at 3.15pm at Comber Road.
The one women's final today sees Pegasus take on Belfast Harlequins for the Denman Shield, 1.15pm at Comber Road.
Irish Independent
